What is a conservation easement?

A conservation easement is best defined as a voluntary agreement that runs with the land. This type of easement is designed to protect natural resources or significant features of the land, such as wildlife habitats, agricultural land, or scenic vistas, while allowing the landowner to retain ownership and certain rights. By entering into this agreement, landowners restrict specific types of development and land use practices that could harm these resources, thereby promoting conservation efforts.

Conservation easements can be an essential tool in land management and preservation because they are tailored to the specific needs and characteristics of the property while also addressing the landowner's wishes. They provide a legal framework that ensures ongoing protection for the specified conservation values, even if the property is sold or transferred to new owners in the future. This "runs with the land" feature is what makes conservation easements particularly effective in maintaining long-term conservation goals.